Venezuela: Protests Erupt as US Accuses Maduro of Election Fraud

Protests have erupted across Venezuela following the disputed presidential election victory of President Nicolás Maduro, with opposition leaders and the United States alleging widespread fraud. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has declared the opposition candidate, Edmundo González Urrutia, the rightful winner, prompting Maduro to threaten the opposition and spurring international condemnation.

Venezuela has been engulfed in turmoil following the controversial presidential election, with protests spreading across the nation and allegations of fraud marring the process. The United States has joined the chorus of international voices questioning the legitimacy of President Nicolás Maduro's victory, asserting that the opposition candidate, Edmundo González Urrutia, emerged victorious.

Venezuela: Protests Erupt as US Accuses Maduro of Election Fraud

Secretary of State Antony Blinken issued a resounding statement, declaring that "it is clear to the United States and, most importantly, to the Venezuelan people that Edmundo González Urrutia won the most votes in Venezuela’s July 28 presidential election."

Blinken's assertion was based on "overwhelming evidence," including the widespread belief that Maduro lost the election before claiming victory. The opposition candidate, González, enjoyed a consistent lead in pre-election polls.

Venezuela: Protests Erupt as US Accuses Maduro of Election Fraud

Following the election, the National Electoral Council, which is controlled by Maduro loyalists, announced that Maduro had received 51% of the vote compared to González's 44% support. The opposition immediately rejected these results, citing irregularities and the lack of independent verification.

The opposition's presidential candidate, Edmundo Gonzalez, leaves the polling station with his wife, Mercedes Lopez, center, and daughter Mariana after voting in presidential elections in Caracas, Venezuela, on July 28, 2024. (AP)

Venezuela: Protests Erupt as US Accuses Maduro of Election Fraud

The Venezuelan authorities' swift declaration of Maduro as the winner has been met with widespread skepticism. The opposition has presented tally sheets from over 80% of polling stations, which allegedly indicate that González won by a significant margin.

International observers have also cast doubt on the election's credibility. Government officials from Brazil, Colombia, and Mexico have urged Maduro's administration to release vote tally sheets and allow for impartial verification.

Venezuela: Protests Erupt as US Accuses Maduro of Election Fraud

Protests have erupted across Venezuela, with demonstrators expressing outrage over the alleged fraud. In response, authorities have cracked down on dissent, arresting protesters and dispersing crowds with force.

Secretary Blinken has condemned the heavy-handed tactics and called for the release of detained protesters. He also urged the Venezuelan authorities to respect the opposition leaders, such as González and María Corina Machado, and to facilitate a peaceful transition of power.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.